Splendors of Bhutan

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu 

You will land at Tribhuvan International Airport, and our representative will escort you to your hotel. 

You stroll through the vibrant streets of Thamel, where colourful shops and bustling markets offer a glimpse into the local way of life. As the day ends, savour a delicious Nepali meal with the flavours of this unique and diverse cuisine. 

Day 2: Arrival at Paro and a scenic drive to Thimphu 

The next day, your journey begins with a scenic flight into Paro on Druk Air, with magnificent views of the world's highest peaks and the lush green Paro valley. 

As you leave the plane, you are welcome by the cool, fresh air, the first gift from Bhutan. Our representative will warmly greet you and drop you off at your hotel in Paro. 

Likewise, the picturesque valley is filled with charming hamlets in terraced paddy fields and blends traditional architecture with farming traditions. After lunch, you drive to Thimphu, the modern capital of Bhutan, which takes around 1½ hours. 

With its unique charm, Thimphu provides a glimpse of a capital city like no other, with just three lines of shops and the distinction of being the only capital in the world without traffic lights. 

In the evening, explore the Handicrafts Emporium, a treasure trove of Bhutanese handicrafts. You will end your day and stay at a hotel in Thimphu.

Day 03: Thimphu Sightseeing

Today, your day by visiting the National Memorial Chorten, an admired monument constructed in honour of the late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk. You submerge yourself in Bhutan's rich cultural heritage as you explore the National Institute of Traditional Medicine and learn about traditional healing practices. 

You also discover the ancient art of Buddhist painting at the Art & Craft School, where children continue to master this age-old craft. You explore the vibrant world of traditional weaving at the Textile Museum, followed by a delightful lunch at a local restaurant in Thimphu.

Afterwards, embark on visits to the Handmade Paper Factory, Tashichho Dzong, Zilukha Nunnery, Motithang Mini-Zoo (housing the unique takin, Bhutan's national animal), and Dechenphodrang Monastic School. 

Finally, conclude your evening with a stroll through Thimphu's central shopping district. You will rest and rejuvenate overnight at your hotel.

Day 04: Thimpu to Punakha 

After breakfast, you head on a scenic journey from Thimphu to Punakha. In contrast, you'll pass through lush forests and reach the breathtaking Dochula Pass with panoramic views of the Himalayas. 

After descending into the fertile valley, visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong between Mo Chu and Pho Chu. 

If time allows, take a lovely hike to Khamsum Yueley Chorten, with stunning views of terraced rice fields and the village of Kabina. You will rest and unwind at the comfortable Meri Puensum hotel.

Day 05: Punakha - Bumtang

We start on an early morning journey to the majestic central valleys of Bhutan. The alluring drive to Bumthang via Trongsa spans around 7 hours and encompasses the majestic Pele La Pass (3,300 m) and Yotongla Pass (3,400 m). 

As we traverse "The Central Road" through the Black Mountains, witness the transcendent impact it has had on the lives of the locals in central Bhutan. 

Along the way, make a brief stop in Wangdue to admire the Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, elevated on a hill at the intersection of the Tsang Chu and Dang Chu rivers. 

The ascent through diverse vegetation to Pelela Pass, a symbolic divide between West and East Bhutan, grants breathtaking vistas of the Himalayas. It includes the grandeur of Jhomulhari Peak. 

You encounter the historic Chendebji Chorten and dive into the rich heritage of Trongsa by visiting the magnificent Trongsa Dzong, a cherished abode of the ruling dynasty.

Finally, we drive to the enchanting Bumthang Valley, one of the most exquisite Himalayas, crossing the picturesque Yotongla Pass (3,400 m). Later, indulge in dinner and spend the night at the charming Rinchenling Lodge.

Day 06: Bumthang Sightseeing 

Today, you will explore the breathtaking valley of Bumthang, a revered spiritual hub decorated with sacred sites and Buddhist practitioners. 

The day begins with a hike to Tamshing Monastery and Kurjey Lhakhang, both associated with Guru Rinpoche and filled with spiritual significance. 

Later, you discover the ancient Jambay Lhakhang and the Jakar Dzong in the morning. 

In the afternoon, venture towards the eastern part of Bumthang to witness the tranquil beauty of Membar Tsho (burning lake) and savor the local delicacies at the Swiss Cheese farm. You will end the day with a delightful dinner and overnight stay at Rinchenling Lodge.

Day 07: Bumthang - Gangtey – Wangdue

Today, you will have an early breakfast and drive to Wangdue via Gangtey, which lies on the flanks of the Black Mountains. An old monastery of Gangtey Gompa (under renovation) dates back to the 17th century. 

The captivating Phobjikha Valley is "the most beautiful valley in the Himalayas." You can explore the valley and witness the winter migration of black-necked cranes. 

You conclude the day with a leisurely walk in Gangtey before descending to the enchanting Wangdue Valley. At night you enjoy dinner and spend the night at the hotel.

Day 08: Wangdue– Thimphu

The morning starts with a hike to Chhimi Lhakhang Monastery, also known as the monastery of the "Divine Mad Man. 

Later you will embark on a scenic drive to Thimphu over the Dochola-pass. Finally, you will have dinner and stay overnight at the hotel.

Day 09: Thimpu – Hike to Tango Monastery  

You will drive towards the north of Thimpu Valley, pass through the pine forests, get glimpses of Dechhenchholing Palace, and reach the base of Tango Monastery. 

Later, you enjoy a 2-hour hike to the monastery, founded in the 13th century, before returning to the ground floor and continuing the journey to Thimphu for lunch. 

Afterwards, drive to Paro and explore Paro Ta dzong, which houses the National Museum with its impressive collection of artefacts. You visit the historic Rinpung Dzong, now an administration centre and monastic school. You will end the day with a stroll through Paro's vibrant shopping district and stay overnight at the hotel.

Day 10: Paro-Hike to Taktsang 

The scenic morning drive to Drukgyal Dzong, a ruined fort that once defended the valley against Tibetan invasions. You marvel at the majestic Mount Jhomolhari in the backdrop. 

Later that day, you hike from Satsam Chorten to the iconic Taktsang Monastery, known as Tiger's Nest, perched precariously on a cliff. Take your time and enjoy breathtaking views of the monastery and learn about its legendary origins. 

After lunch, visit Drukgyal Dzong once more, taking in the panoramic view of Mount Chomolhari. 

On the way back, explore Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. You conclude the day with a delicious dinner and an overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 11: Departure from Paro Airport 

After an early breakfast, our Bhutanese representative from Nepal Vision will accompany you to Paro Airport to bid you farewell.